Iconic Northants roadside cafe and truckstop reopens in hope of becoming motoring destination once again
An iconic Northamptonshire roadside cafe and truckstop has reopened, in the hope of becoming a well-renowned destination among the motoring industry once again.
Jack’s Hill Cafe & Truckstop, located on the A5 Watling Street near Towcester, has been around since 1955. After closing during the pandemic, the business was fully restored and reopened in October last year.
It has already received fantastic feedback and the hope is to reestablish Jack’s Hill as the place to go for classic car and bike meets, just as it was back in the day.
Jack’s Hill Cafe & Truckstop is now owned by Spare Ryb Logistics and Colin Cowley-Hurlock has been the head of operations at the site since the reopening in 2025.
When asked to describe the business to anyone who has never visited before, Colin told the Chronicle & Echo: “It’s the best truckstop and motorcycle cafe in the country. It’s unique as we have our own shop, gym, showers and cafe using some of the best ingredients.”
Spare Ryb Logistics took over the site as “everybody wanted it reopened” and Colin believes it was needed in the area.
“It should have never shut,” said Colin. “We’ve retarmacked the lorry park completely from one side to the other, installed new showers, refitted the kitchen and cafe, and had disabled facilities reinstalled.
“We have a gym and the site is barrier-controlled so parking overnight is secure. The cafe is available on a self-serve basis 24 hours a day and is officially open from 6am until 9pm. That’s a unique part.”
Colin was asked what feedback the team has received from the motoring community since reopening in Northamptonshire in October 2025, and what they like most about the offering.
“Most people love the fact it’s been reopened full stop,” he said. “The showers and tarmac have been massively complimented by drivers and from the bikers’ point of view, it’s the cafe being open with healthy and reliable food and good staff.”
The team has planned a major relaunch event on April 4 and 5 to mark the end of the expansion and welcome everyone to see what Jack’s Hill Cafe & Truckstop has to offer.
Colin said: “There will be all sorts of trade stalls primarily to do with classic cars, trucks and motorbikes, and we want to have an open conversation about what people like and don’t like.”
There will be a hog roast and outside food stalls, with an open invite to bike clubs, classic and custom car owners, and anyone who wants to see what is available.
Incentives are available to clubs who want to utilise the venue for their events, and there is 10 percent off food and drink for members on non-event days.
The team is proud to offer a huge flat display area perfect for parking, photos and chatting in a friendly environment, a central UK location with easy A5 access, and traditional cafe food with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
“The sheer amount of events through the summer is going to be amazing, along with the fact we’re open to the public and offer a 99p cup of tea,” said Colin. “It’s exciting to see how it’s going to grow over the next 12 months, as we’re adaptable and take ideas on board.”